A rapid TLC autographic method for the detection of xanthine oxidase inhibitors and superoxide scavengers.

A new bioautographic assay suitable for the localization of xanthine oxidase inhibitors and superoxide radical scavengers present in a complex matrix is described. Enzyme activity is detected by reaction of superoxide radicals with nitroblue tetrazolium to form a blue formazan salt. Both activities can be differentiated using a non-enzymatic version of the autographic assay wherein superoxide is chemically generated.